Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

Riad Al Solh

Role / Field:

Founding Lebanese statesman and politician, key figure in the struggle for independence.

Born:

1894-08-17

Died:

1951-07-17

Century / Era:

1894s Historical Era

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

Riad Al Solh (Arabic: رياض الصلح; 17 August 1894 – 17 July 1951) was a Lebanese politician and statesman who served as the first and fifth prime minister of Lebanon from 1943 to 1945 and from 1946 to 1951, respectively. Solh was one of the most important figures in Lebanon's struggle for independence, who was able to unite the various religious groups, and is considered to be one of the founders of Lebanon. Riad Al Solh, also written Riad el Solh or Riad Solh, was born in Sidon, on 17 August 1894. He was born to Sunni Muslim parents; His father, Reda Al Solh, was Vice-governor in Nabatiyyah and in Sidon and a leading nationalist Arab leader.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

In 1915 Reda Al Solh was tried by Ottoman forces and went into exile in Smyrna, Ottoman Empire. He also served as Minister of the Interior in Emir Faisal's government in Damascus. Riad Al Solh studied law and political science at the University of Paris. He spent most of his youth in Istanbul, as his father was a deputy in the Ottoman Parliament. Solh served as prime minister of Lebanon twice.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

His first term was just after the Lebanon's independence (25 September 1943 – 10 January 1945). Solh was chosen by president...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1894 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1894
• August 17 (08-17) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on August 17
• 1951 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1951
• July 17 (07-17) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on July 17

Frequently Asked Questions about Riad Al Solh